Your Worcester News has launched a £1 million appeal to help the Worcester- based bereavment charity Noah's Ark to buy a new home. Reporter Claire Fry spoke to a group of women who are looking to help in their own special way

A BARN dance held by a group of woman to raise money for a city-based charity to buy its own base has been hailed a great success.

Members of Droitwich Ladies Circle were keen to help Noah's Ark Trust, a charity which supports bereaved children, after reading about a £1 million fund-raising appeal in your Worcester News.

The dance, which took place at the Heritage Centre in Droitwich at the end of January, raised £500 for the trust's Towards A Brighter Future appeal.

One of the organisers, Leanne Day said: "The barn dance went really well with a packed hall.

"We sold 70 tickets, had a raffle and some games and everyone had a great time.

"We raised £500 profit which is fantastic and I'm now arranging a Virgin Vie party at my house in March. The host has agreed to give some of the profits towards Noah's Ark so the more people buy the more money we can raise."

The mother of two pre-school aged children and chairman of the circle added: "After reading on their website about the fantastic work they do for bereaved children, it touched me. They give counselling and support and take groups of children on adventure days and weekends. It's a very worthwhile cause."

Gabby Beddows, head of operations at the trust said: "We are very grateful to Leanne and the other ladies who helped organise the Barn Dance. People are coming forward from all over the county to offer their support in helping us to raise the £1 million.

"It is only with the help of people such as Leanne that we can continue to provide, indeed expand, our services."